Ever the animated spectator on the sidelines, Pardew has little to complain about after the FA handed him a two-match touchline ban and a £20,000 fine to boot for his conduct in Newcastle’s opening win of the season. His blatant push on the assistant referee after the official had failed to award his side a throw-in was unacceptable and, despite his swift apology, Pardew’s unwillingness to contest the initial FA charges is indicative of his yielding to the inevitable punishment.

In banning Pardew the FA have taken this early opportunity to signal they will come down hard on any cases of misconduct this season, be it on or off the pitch. This comes after the conduct of footballers has become further scrutinised in the wake of this summer’s Olympic Games, during which Team GB’s athletes set an impressive example in professionalism and dedication to all those who revel in the round ball game.

The ban will see Pardew missing the games against Everton and Norwich, and Magpies fans will be concerned that the manager’s absence could cost them in games they would hope to take at least four points from.

Should Newcastle drop points in the two fixtures, Pardew could come to rue his failure to control his frustration at the end of the season as his side look to secure a top-four spot in the League after only narrowing missing out last campaign.

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